Jack-o'-lantern

Omphalotus olearius

A species of Omphalotus.

The Omphalotus olearius, commonly known as the jack-o'-lantern mushroom, truly embodies its namesake beyond mere appearance. Its large, spherical caps boast an intense orange hue, strikingly reminiscent of pumpkins. What's more, these fungi possess a captivating nocturnal secret: they emit their own light. As darkness falls, their bioluminescent gills become visible, casting an eerie green glow. Adding to this spectral aura, the jack-o'-lantern mushroom is also highly toxic, further aligning with its ominous theme.

Attributes of Jack-o'-lantern

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Cap Diameter
7 - 20 cm
Height
4 - 14 cm
Cap
Cap 4 - 12 cm across; broadly convex; bright brownish orange to yellowish orange; margin slightly inrolled
Cap Shape
Convex, Depressed, Flat
Cap Surfaces
Smooth
Gills
Decurrent; close; orange
Gill Attachment
Decurrent
Stem
Stem 3.5 - 9 cm long, 1 - 2 cm thick; pale orange to orange; solid
Stem Shapes
Tapering
Stem Surfaces
Smooth
Flesh
Pale orange
Ring
Ringless
Spore Print Color
Whitish
Odor
Pleasantly strong, not particularly unique aroma.
Body Color
BrownYellowOrange
Flesh Bruises
The flesh or milk does not discolor when bruised or cut.
Growth Form
Gregarious, Clustered
Nutrient Gathering
Saprophytic
Substrate
Dead Woods
Occurence Habitats
Deciduous Woodland
Species Status
Uncommon but far from rare
Endangered Species
No

Scientific Classification of Jack-o'-lantern

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Phylum
Club fungi
Class
Mushroom-forming fungi
Order
Gilled fungi
Family
Marasmiaceae
Genus
Omphalotus
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Toxicity and Edibility of Jack-o'-lantern

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Is Jack-o'-lantern Toxic?

The 'jack-o'-lantern' often thrives in decomposing timber or wooded environments, particularly in warmer periods. Given its neurotoxic nature, it can induce serious physical reactions including impaired awareness, excessive sweating, gastrointestinal issues, and even immobility. Its distinctive orange luminescence can aid in its identification, differentiating it from harmless counterparts. Due to its potential health risks, any contact with the 'jack-o'-lantern' necessitates careful oversight.

Toxins type
Muscarine
Type of poisoning
Neurotoxic
Toxic Severity
High toxicity
Incubation Period
0.25-4 hours
Poisoning Symptoms
Nerve toxin, consciousness clouding, pupil shrinkage, paralysis, perspiration, blood pressure drop, digestion issues, vomiting, diarrhea, severe asthma in extreme cases.

Is Jack-o'-lantern Toxic to Dogs?

Jack-o'-lantern can be dangerous to dogs. If your pet has consumed this mushroom, seek immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms may vary, but early intervention is crucial for the best outcome.

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